2 minute read
Cathedral Cove Walk
Where is it?
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Grange Rd, 2km from Hahei or 35km from Whitianga.
Terrain
Coastal paths, handrails in places, steep at times.
Good to know
Car parking here can be difficult in the height of summer.
Track Overview
Because this track is largely all downhill as it heads to the coast, getting there is easier than returning - but it is worth making the effort. After about 10 minutes walking, look for a sign that points to Gemstone Bay; there you’ll find a popular snorkel trail with information panels on buoys that tell you more about what you’re seeing in the water. If snorkelling isn’t on your agenda, keep walking for a further 20 minutes to a sign pointing to Stingray Bay; follow that direction to enjoy the clear waters and stingrays or keep on walking directly to Cathedral Cove, said by many to be one of the most beautiful beaches in The Coromandel. Gaze at the view through the famous rock archway Te Hoho Rock, one of the most photographed outlooks in New Zealand. Be sure to wear sensible shoes, and if it’s summer take sunscreen, drinking water and your swimsuit.
Need to Know
NO DOGS
TIME & DISTANCE: 90min return; 2.5km
FITNESS: Average fitness required
TERRAIN: Undulating with some steps
New Chums Beach
New Chums Beach
Destination Coromandel
A little effort is required but emerging from woodland onto New Chums Beach is like discovering a tropical island. Clear blue water and gold sand welcomes all those who tackle the 30-minute walk. Park at the end of Mangakahia Dr in Whangapoua and clamber over the rocky headland before picking up a track that drops on to the heavenly beach.
Cathedral Cove arch
Getty Images
Whitianga
Holiday mode starts now. Kick back and enjoy the café culture in Whitianga town centre, then book a boat excursion to Mercury Bay or hire an e-bike, take it on the 10-minute ferry between Whitianga and Ferry landing, and zip up the coast to Hahei Beach and Cathedral Cove. No bike? No worries. Enjoy the walk to secluded Cooks Beach, just 40 minutes each way. Later, stroll along the esplanade at Buffalo Beach and venture to The Lost Spring, where all-natural hot lagoons are fed from water sources 667m below the ground. If you have family in tow, children love the petting zoo at Whiti Farm Park and Mill Creek Bird and Animal Encounters is just 10 minutes out of Whitianga with a huge range of exotic and native birds.
